When it comes to improving the windows in your home, you have two main options – installing sash kits to repair your existing windows or replacing them entirely with new windows.
Both options have their pros and cons, so it’s important to understand the key differences before deciding which route to take.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Factor | Sash Kits | Replacement Windows |
| Cost | $100-$300 per window | $400-$800 per window |
| Energy Efficiency Improvement | 10-15% | 25-35% |
| Installation Time | A few hours per window | 2-3 days for the project |
| Disruption | Minimal | Major disruption |
| Historic Preservation | Maintains original architecture | Replaces old windows |
| Appearance | Improves appearance but doesn’t look brand new | Can get completely new modern look |
| Lifespan | Repaired windows last 15-20 more years | New windows last 30-40 years |
| Customization | Limited to sash materials and glazing | Fully customize size, styles, materials |
What Are Sash Kits?
A sash kit is a collection of parts designed to refurbish your existing double-hung windows. Sash kits allow you to replace worn-out components like the sash cords, sash locks, sill pulleys, weatherstripping and wood sashes while keeping the existing window frame intact.
Sash kits typically include:
- New sash cords
- Sash locks and lifts
- Replacement wood sashes
- Weatherstripping
- Sill pulleys
- Paint or stain to refinish the sashes
Installing a sash kit involves removing the existing sashes and sash components then installing the new replacement parts provided in the kit.
It’s a relatively straightforward process that can give old drafty windows new life.
Benefits of Sash Kits
Some of the benefits of using sash kits include:
- Cost Savings – Sash kits are significantly less expensive than full window replacements. Prices range from $100-300 per window depending on the size and components needed.
- Maintain Historic Accuracy – For historic homes, sash kits allow you to preserve the original look and architectural details of old wood windows. This is important for maintaining the historic integrity of vintage homes.
- Quick Installation – A handy, do-it-yourselfer can install a sash kit in a few hours per window. No need to deal with messy renovations or altering the existing window frame.
- Energy Efficient Upgrade – Replacing the sashes and weatherstripping can provide a surprisingly effective upgrade in energy efficiency. Air leaks are reduced while maintaining the original charm.
- Customizable – Sash kits allow you to customize the material (wood, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass) and glazing options. This allows some customization to suit your needs and budget.
- Environmentally Friendly – Refurbishing existing windows is a sustainable choice since nothing ends up in the landfill. It’s the greenest option short of doing nothing at all.
Replacement Window Overview
Rather than refurbish the existing windows, replacement windows involve completely removing the old window frame and sashes and installing a brand new window in its place.
Replacement windows come in a wide variety of styles including:
- Double hung
- Casement
- Awning
- Sliding
- Picture
- Bay and bow
- Garden windows
Materials range from vinyl, wood, fiberglass and aluminum to composite materials that mix and match different frames and sashes.
When shopping for replacements, key factors to consider include:
- Frame material
- Glass options (double pane, low-E, gas filled)
- Energy efficiency rating
- Size and dimensions
- Cost
- Installation method (insert vs. full frame)
- Warranty
- Aesthetics and color options
Benefits of Replacement Windows
Why might you want to replace those drafty old windows completely? Here are some of the benefits:
- Superior Energy Efficiency – New windows far surpass sash kits in thermal performance. Multiple panes of insulating glass and advanced frame materials reduce air leakage significantly.
- Noise Reduction – The construction of new windows does a much better job blocking outside noise from traffic, neighbors, etc.
- Improved Aesthetics – Replacing windows gives you a chance to update the look with stylish new frames and window designs.
- Advanced Glass Options – Get features like built-in blinds, fogged glass for privacy, and smart glass technologies not possible with sash kits.
- Longer Lifespan – A brand new window will last longer than a repaired older one. The warranty is much better too.
- Added Home Value – New replacement windows boost your home’s value more than refurbished ones. Curb appeal and saleability goes up.
- Lower Maintenance – No more painting, scraping, puttying issues associated with older wooden windows. New windows are largely maintenance-free.
- Enhanced Safety – New windows must meet strict building codes. You also gain new security features and stronger glass resistant to break-ins.
- Customization – Brand new windows allow you to fully customize size, materials, and special features. Tailor them to your exact needs.
As you can see, replacement windows offer comprehensive improvements beyond what sash kits can provide. But this comes at an increased cost.
Key Comparison of Sash Kits And Replacements Windows
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s directly compare some of the important factors between sash kits and replacement windows:
- Upfront Cost
Sash Kits – $100-300 per window Replacement – $400-800+ per window
Replacing your sashes is clearly much cheaper upfront.Even higher-end sash kits cost a fraction of a new window.
- Installation Time
Sash Kits – A few hours per window Replacement – 2-3 days for the whole project
The installation process is markedly quicker with sash kits. Replacement windows require much more construction and re-framing of the opening.
- Energy Efficiency
Sash Kits – 10-15% improvement Replacement – 25-35% improvement
New windows provide substantially better thermal performance from better framing, weatherstripping, and insulated glass.
- Disruption
Sash Kits – Minimal disruption to your home Replacement – Major disruption as windows are removed and reframed. Dust and noise!
Sash kits allow you to improve windows with minimal fuss. Replacement windows are a major project.
- Historic Preservation
Sash Kits – Maintain original look and architecture Replacement – Old windows discarded and new style installed
For vintage homes, sash kits are the only option that preserves historic windows.
- Appearance
Sash Kits – Improve appearance but sashes still look old Replacement – Look brand new with modern frames and glass
You can modernize the look with brand new replacement windows. Sash kits maintain the classic appearance.
- Lifespan
Sash Kits – Repaired windows last 15-20 more years Replacement – New windows last 30-40 years
Replacement windows come with long warranties and outlive repaired sash windows.
Sash Kit And Replacement Window Costs
Let’s take a closer look at the cost comparison:
For a standard 24″x36″ double hung window the material costs shake out as follows:
- Sash kit – Approximately $150-250 per window This covers new sash cords, sash lifts, pulleys, bottom rails, weatherstripping and any replacement sash wood.
- Replacement window – Approximately $400-600 per window A brand new double hung replacement window averages $400-600 with installation. Higher end options with specialty glass can run $800+.
Beyond just material costs, here’s a full run-down of costs to budget for:
Sash kit costs
- Sash kit – $100-250 per window
- Optional foam insulation – $10 per window
- Misc supplies (glazing, paint) – $5 per window
- Basic tools if DIYing – $50-100
- Professional installation – $100-200 per window
Total budget: $350-850 for a typical 10-window project
Replacement window costs
- New windows – $400-600 per window
- Window removal – $50 per window
- Installation labor – $200 per window
- Misc supplies – $5 per window
- Exterior trim work – $10-20 per window
- Disposal fees – $10-20 per window
Total budget: $5000-10000 for 10 windows
As you can see, sash kits provide big savings, especially if you’re able to DIY the installation.
Pros and Cons of Sash Kits And Replacement Windows
| Style | Pros | Cons |
| Sash Kits | Less expensive upfront cost | Lower energy efficiency improvement |
| Maintain original architecture | Shorter overall lifespan | |
| Quick installation | Limited style options | |
| Minimal disruption to home | Can’t modify window size | |
| Replacement Windows | Maximum energy efficiency | Much higher upfront cost |
| Contemporary window styles | Disruptive installation process | |
| Advanced glass options | Old windows go to landfill | |
| Long lifespan with warranty | Need to refinish interior | |
| Can customize size | Potential lead paint issues |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sash kits provide great bang for your buck. For historic homes or if you’re on a tight budget, they strike a nice balance offering energy improvements at a reasonable cost. If your window frames are in good shape but the sashes are failing, sash kits make perfect sense.
Sash kits include all the hardware needed to refurbish an existing double hung window. At minimum, they include new sash cords, sash lifts, tilt latches, and bottom rails. Higher end kits add new wood sashes and weatherstripping. All parts needed to restore operability and weather seal the window.
Replacement casement windows are generally slightly less expensive than double hung windows. But when refurbishing with sash kits, they cost about the same. Casement sash kits run $100-300 per window, similar to double hung sash kits.
The sash is the portion that holds the glass within the frame. Double hung windows have two movable sashes that slide up and down. The frame is the stationary outer portion that’s attached to the wall and holds the sashes. With sash kits, you only replace the sashes themselves while retaining the existing window frame.
Final Thoughts
Improving old drafty windows can seem like a daunting task. But understanding your options between sash kits and replacements makes the decision much simpler.
For many homes, going the sash kit route provides an affordable compromise, offering energy savings and restored operation while maintaining the architectural integrity of your vintage windows. This prevents having to trash old growth wood windows that would be near impossible to replace today.
However, for maximum energy savings and customization, brand new replacement windows are a great option. Just be prepared for a higher upfront investment and more invasive installation. And if you have really old windows, beware of potential lead paint issues that may complicate replacements.
Carefully weigh the pros, cons and costs of each option. And consider combining approaches for different windows in your home. With some strategic planning, you can restore and enhance the functionality and comfort of your windows in the most cost-effective way possible.